Unexpected Finding: Aortic Regurgitation in a Case of Severe Migraine Headaches

Abstract

The relationship between migraine headaches and valvular heart disease usually relates to chronic use of ergotamine-based medical therapies. Significant aortic regurgitation can result in decreased global cerebral perfusion, and for patients with migraine headaches, decreased cerebral perfusion represents a key finding in relation to their symptomatology from migraines. Though headaches are rarely regarded as complications of aortic regurgitation, a case study is presented of significant aortic regurgitation in an ergotamine-naïve patient whose symptoms resolved after valve replacement surgery.